And here we go!
The Sounders are set to begin the 2018 season on Thursday against Santa Tecla FC in El Salvador. It’s the first leg of the Round of 16 in the 2018 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League, marking the fifth time in club history the Rave Green have competed in the regional tournament.
Here are a few things to be aware of tonight:
1. Will we stick with a 4-2-3-1?
The Sounders are rolling out with their usual 4-2-3-1 lineup, with two defensive midfielders, three attacking midfielders and Jordan Morris as the one forward. At times, though, Head Coach Brian Schmetzer has tinkered with a 4-4-2 diamond during preseason. Could we see a shift where Will Bruin comes alongside Morris up top, with Nicolás Lodeiro playing at the No.10?
2. New backline
Two guys will certainly make their competitive debut for the Sounders tonight: Waylon Francis and Jordan McCrary. Francis, a Costa Rica native who shined in four seasons with the Columbus Crew, gets the nod at left back, with Nouhou available as a reserve. Due to the ankle injury of Kelvin Leerdam, McCrary, a 24-year-old fullback who signed earlier this month, will start at right back. Rookie Alex Roldan is available for selection on the bench.
3. Secure a point... at least
At media availability this week, Morris spoke to the testament of the club: “We came all this way, so we want to get a result.”
In this case, a draw is perfectly acceptable. Due to the tough conditions with the travel and heat, in addition to a squad not at full strength in its first contest of the season, securing a road point would give the Rave Green momentum into the home leg next week. Schmetzer will undoubtedly come out with the intention of earning a victory, but a draw here wouldn’t be so bad.
